Are Chinese EVs Safe? Complete Safety Guide 2026

Are Chinese EVs Safe? The Answer May Surprise You

Are Chinese EVs safe? This question has dominated discussions as Chinese electric vehicles flood European markets. The short answer: Yes, top-tier Chinese EVs are safe and match or exceed European and American brand safety standards. However, safety varies significantly by model and brand, making it crucial to understand which Chinese EVs have proven themselves in rigorous testing.

📅 Last Updated: January 2026 (reflecting latest Euro NCAP test results)

Chinese electric vehicles have achieved dramatic safety improvements and now rank among Europe’s safest vehicles. Multiple models achieve top Euro NCAP five-star ratings, matching or exceeding traditional European and American brands. In 2025 Euro NCAP testing, 18 out of 23 tested Chinese EVs earned five-star ratings, with models like the Leapmotor B10 and Hongqi EHS7 achieving 93% adult protection scores—matching Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupé.

However, not all Chinese EVs perform equally. Budget-focused models may have compromises, as demonstrated by the Dongfeng Nammi Box’s three-star rating. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Chinese EV safety ratings, Euro NCAP test results, and how to choose a safe Chinese electric vehicle.

Quick Safety Facts	Details
Total Chinese EVs Tested	23 models
Five-Star Ratings	18 models (78%)
Top Performer	Leapmotor B10 (93% adult/child protection)
Lowest Performer	Dongfeng Nammi Box (3 stars, 69% adult)
Battery Safety Standard	GB 38031-2025 (stricter than EU standards)

Euro NCAP Safety Ratings for Chinese EVs

Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme) is the gold standard for vehicle safety testing in Europe. Chinese automakers have invested heavily in meeting these rigorous standards, and the results speak for themselves.

Complete Euro NCAP Ratings Table

Model	Year	Rating	Adult Occupant	Child Occupant	Vulnerable Road User	Safety Assist
Leapmotor B10	2025	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	93%	93%	84%	85%
Hongqi EHS7	2025	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	93%	-	-	-
Tesla Model 3 (China-built)	2025	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	90%	93%	89%	87%
BYD Seal	2023	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	89%	87%	82%	76%
BYD Dolphin	2023	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	89%	87%	85%	79%
BYD Seal 6	2025	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	-	-	-	-
NIO ET5	2025	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	-	-	-	-
NIO EL7	2025	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	-	-	-	-
Zeekr X	-	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	-	-	-	-
MG MG4 EV Urban	2025	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	-	-	-	-
Dongfeng Nammi Box	2025	⭐⭐⭐	69%	-	-	-

Note: Some models received five-star ratings but detailed scores weren’t published at time of testing.

Five-Star Rated Chinese EVs

The majority of Chinese EVs tested achieve five-star ratings, demonstrating that Chinese manufacturers can produce vehicles matching European safety standards. Top performers include:

Leapmotor B10 leads the pack with exceptional scores:

• 93% adult occupant protection
• 93% child occupant protection
• 84% vulnerable road user protection
• 85% safety assist systems

BYD Seal and Dolphin consistently score high:

• Both achieve 89% adult occupant protection
• 87% child occupant protection
• Advanced Blade Battery technology adds extra safety layer

Tesla Model 3 (China-built) proves Chinese manufacturing can match global standards:

• 90% adult protection
• 93% child protection (highest among tested Chinese EVs)
• 87% safety assist systems

Three-Star and Lower Performers

The Dongfeng Nammi Box received only three stars, highlighting that not all Chinese EVs meet the same standards. Key issues identified:

• Spot-weld compromises during 50 km/h offset-front impact test
• Under-performing airbags with inadequate pressure
• Doors failed to auto-unlock post-crash, potentially trapping occupants

This demonstrates the importance of checking Euro NCAP ratings before purchasing. Budget-focused Chinese models may have safety compromises compared to mainstream offerings.

How Chinese EVs Perform in Crash Tests

Chinese EVs have demonstrated strong performance across all Euro NCAP crash test categories, with top models matching or exceeding European and American brands.

Adult Occupant Protection Scores

Most top-rated Chinese EVs demonstrate stable passenger compartments in frontal offset tests, providing good protection to occupants of different sizes and positions. BYD models scored 89% for adult occupant protection, while the Leapmotor B10 achieved 93%—matching premium European brands like Mercedes-Benz.

Key strengths:

• Extended front crumple zones: Up to 1,223mm (2.4x typical fuel vehicles)
• Reduced peak deceleration: From 42g to 25g (41% reduction)
• Ultra-high-strength steel: Up to 16% of body structure
• Thermoformed steel components: Up to 13% of body

Child Occupant Protection Scores

Chinese EVs excel in child protection, with the Leapmotor B10 and Tesla Model 3 (China-built) both achieving 93% scores. BYD Seal and Dolphin score 87%, demonstrating consistent attention to child safety across different price points.

Vulnerable Road User Protection

Strong AEB (Autonomous Emergency Braking) performance with effective recognition of pedestrians and cyclists. BYD Dolphin scored 85% for vulnerable road user protection, while Tesla Model 3 (China-built) achieved 89%. The BYD Seal includes a cyclist dooring prevention system, showing attention to detail beyond basic requirements.

Safety Assist Systems

Advanced driver assistance systems including AEB, lane keeping, and speed limit assist. Scores range from 76% (BYD Seal) to 87% (Tesla Model 3 China-built). Chinese manufacturers have significantly upgraded driver-assist software for European markets to meet stricter EU regulations.

Structural Design and Crumple Zones

Top Chinese EV models use advanced structural engineering:

• Cell-to-Body (CTB) technology (BYD): Battery pack integrated into vehicle structure for improved rigidity
• Extended crumple zones: Up to 1,223mm front crumple zones provide superior impact protection
• Multi-layer protection: Ultra-high-strength steel combined with thermoformed components

Battery Safety Explained

Battery safety is perhaps the most significant concern for EV buyers, and Chinese manufacturers have implemented some of the world’s strictest battery safety standards.

New Chinese Battery Safety Standards (GB 38031-2025)

China has implemented significantly stricter EV battery safety regulations through the updated GB 38031-2025 standard, effective July 1, 2026. The new standard introduces a “no fire, no explosion” requirement—one of the strictest globally.

Key requirements include:

1. Thermal diffusion testing with clarified temperature requirements
2. Bottom impact tests to assess battery protective capabilities
3. Fast-charging cycle safety tests requiring external short circuit testing after 300 fast charge cycles
4. Mandatory requirement that smoke from thermal events must not enter passenger compartment within 5 minutes after thermal alarm signal

As of February 2024, 78% of surveyed vehicle and battery companies already possess technology to prevent battery fires or explosions, with an additional 14% expecting capability by 2026-27.

Battery Thermal Management

Advanced thermal management systems are standard on premium Chinese EVs:

• BYD Blade Battery: Passes nail penetration test without fire or explosion
• Active cooling systems: Maintain optimal battery temperature during charging and operation
• Battery protection systems: Multiple layers of protection against overcharging, overheating, and physical damage

Fire Risk Context

Studies show EV fire rates are actually lower than gasoline vehicles, despite public concerns. The new GB 38031-2025 standard further reduces risks by mandating “no fire, no explosion” requirements that exceed current EU standards.

💡 Pro Tip: When evaluating Chinese EV battery safety, look for models with BYD Blade Battery technology or similar LFP (lithium iron phosphate) chemistries, which are inherently safer than NMC batteries.

Comparison with European Brands

How do Chinese EVs compare to established European and American brands? The answer: top Chinese EV models match or exceed European brand safety ratings.

Chinese EVs vs European Brands

In 2025 Euro NCAP tests, Chinese models like Leapmotor B10 and Hongqi EHS7 achieved 93% adult protection scores, matching Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupé. This demonstrates that Chinese manufacturers can produce vehicles meeting the highest European safety standards.

Key comparisons:

Brand	Model	Adult Protection	Child Protection	Safety Assist
Leapmotor	B10	93%	93%	85%
Mercedes-Benz	CLE Coupé	93%	-	-
BYD	Seal	89%	87%	76%
BYD	Dolphin	89%	87%	79%
Tesla (China)	Model 3	90%	93%	87%

Chinese EVs vs American Brands

Chinese EVs perform comparably to American brands. Tesla Model 3 (China-built) consistently achieves top scores with 90% adult and 93% child protection, demonstrating that Chinese manufacturing can match or exceed American standards.

Key Difference: Model-by-Model Variation

Performance varies significantly model-by-model rather than by country of origin. Budget-focused Chinese models tend to underperform compared to mainstream offerings, while premium Chinese EVs match or exceed established Western brands.

Consistency matters: Not all Chinese EVs perform equally. The Dongfeng Nammi Box received only three stars due to spot-weld failures, inadequate airbag pressure, and doors that failed to unlock after impact. This highlights the importance of checking Euro NCAP ratings for specific models rather than assuming all Chinese EVs are equal.

Common Safety Concerns Addressed

Let’s address the most common safety concerns about Chinese EVs with data-driven answers.

Build Quality Concerns

Concern: Chinese EVs may have inferior build quality compared to European brands.

Reality: Chinese automakers significantly upgrade safety systems for European markets, reinforcing frames, updating airbags, and improving driver-assist software to meet stricter EU regulations. Top models use ultra-high-strength steel (up to 16% of body structure) and thermoformed steel (up to 13%), with extended front crumple zones providing superior impact protection.

However, build quality varies significantly between premium and budget models. Premium Chinese EVs demonstrate excellent build quality matching European standards, while budget models may have compromises.

Battery Fire Risks

Concern: Chinese EV batteries may be more prone to fires.

Reality: China’s new GB 38031-2025 standard is among the strictest globally, mandating “no fire, no explosion” requirements. BYD’s Blade Battery technology passes nail penetration tests without fire or explosion. Studies show EV fire rates are lower than gasoline vehicles.

Recent Recalls

Concern: Chinese EVs have frequent recalls indicating safety issues.

Reality: While recalls exist, they demonstrate proactive safety management. Major manufacturers like BYD address issues promptly and transparently:

Major Recalls 2025:

• October 2025: BYD recalled over 115,000 vehicles (44,535 Tang series with component design flaws, 71,248 Yuan Pro with battery installation problems)
• September 2024: BYD recalled nearly 97,000 Dolphin and Yuan Plus EVs due to steering control unit manufacturing fault that posed fire risks
• January 2025: BYD recalled 6,843 Fangchengbao Bao 5 plug-in hybrids due to fire risks

Notable Incident: A fatal Xiaomi EV crash in March 2025, where the vehicle caught fire after collision, contributed to China’s decision to tighten battery safety regulations.

While recalls exist, they show manufacturers are addressing issues proactively. The scale of recalls (115,000+ vehicles) demonstrates BYD’s commitment to safety, even when it means significant financial impact.

European Market Safety Enhancements

Chinese manufacturers make specific modifications for European markets:

• Reinforced frames: Additional structural reinforcement for EU models
• Updated airbag systems: Enhanced airbag deployment and pressure
• Improved driver-assist software: Enhanced ADAS systems meeting EU regulations
• Enhanced safety specifications: Meeting stricter EU regulations beyond Chinese domestic requirements

This means European buyers often receive safer versions than Chinese domestic models.

Safest Chinese EV Models

Based on Euro NCAP testing, here are the safest Chinese EV models you can buy:

Top Performers

1. Leapmotor B10 (2025)

   • Rating: 5 stars
   • Adult Protection: 93%
   • Child Protection: 93%
   • Safety Assist: 85%
   • Notes: Top performer in 2025 Euro NCAP tests

2. Hongqi EHS7 (2025)

   • Rating: 5 stars
   • Adult Protection: 93%
   • Notes: Matching Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupé scores

3. BYD Seal (2023)

   • Rating: 5 stars
   • Adult Protection: 89%
   • Child Protection: 87%
   • Notes: Consistent high performer with advanced Blade Battery technology

4. BYD Dolphin (2023)

   • Rating: 5 stars
   • Adult Protection: 89%
   • Child Protection: 87%
   • Vulnerable Road User: 85%
   • Safety Assist: 79%

5. Tesla Model 3 (China-built) (2025)

   • Rating: 5 stars
   • Adult Protection: 90%
   • Child Protection: 93%
   • Safety Assist: 87%
   • Notes: Consistently achieves top scores

6. NIO ET5 and EL7 (2025)

   • Rating: 5 stars
   • Notes: Five-star rated but detailed scores not available

7. Zeekr X

   • Rating: 5 stars
   • Notes: Five-star rated

8. MG MG4 EV Urban (2025)

   • Rating: 5 stars
   • Notes: Five-star rated in 2025

Models to Avoid

Dongfeng Nammi Box (2025)

• Rating: 3 stars
• Adult Protection: 69%
• Issues: Spot-weld failures, inadequate airbags, doors failed to unlock post-crash
• Notes: Falls behind similarly-sized competitors like BYD Dolphin and Renault 5

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are Chinese EVs safe compared to European brands?

A: Yes, top-tier Chinese EVs match or exceed European brand safety standards. In 2025 Euro NCAP tests, Chinese models like Leapmotor B10 and Hongqi EHS7 achieved 93% adult protection scores, matching Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupé. However, safety varies by model—premium Chinese EVs perform excellently, while budget models may have compromises.

Q: What is the Chinese EV Euro NCAP safety rating average?

A: Out of 23 Chinese EVs tested by Euro NCAP, 18 earned five-star ratings (78%). The average performance is strong, with top models achieving 89-93% adult protection scores. However, there’s significant variation—budget models like the Dongfeng Nammi Box scored only 69% adult protection.

Q: Which Chinese EV has the best safety rating?

A: The Leapmotor B10 currently holds the best safety rating among Chinese EVs, achieving 93% for both adult and child occupant protection in 2025 Euro NCAP tests. The Hongqi EHS7 also achieved 93% adult protection, matching premium European brands.

Q: Are Chinese EV batteries safe?

A: Yes, Chinese EV batteries are safe. China’s new GB 38031-2025 standard (effective July 2026) mandates “no fire, no explosion” requirements—among the strictest globally. BYD’s Blade Battery passes nail penetration tests without fire. Studies show EV fire rates are lower than gasoline vehicles.

Q: Do Chinese EVs meet European safety standards?

A: Yes, Chinese manufacturers significantly upgrade safety systems for European markets, reinforcing frames, updating airbags, and improving driver-assist software to meet stricter EU regulations. European buyers often receive safer versions than Chinese domestic models.

Q: Have there been safety recalls for Chinese EVs?

A: Yes, there have been recalls. In October 2025, BYD recalled over 115,000 vehicles due to component design flaws and battery installation problems. However, recalls demonstrate proactive safety management—manufacturers address issues promptly and transparently.

Q: Should I avoid budget Chinese EVs for safety reasons?

A: Budget Chinese EVs may have safety compromises. The Dongfeng Nammi Box received only three stars with 69% adult protection. We recommend choosing models with Euro NCAP five-star ratings and prioritizing premium Chinese EV brands (BYD, NIO, Leapmotor, Zeekr) over budget options.

Q: How do Chinese EVs compare to Tesla in safety?

A: Chinese-built Tesla Model 3 achieves excellent safety scores (90% adult, 93% child protection), demonstrating Chinese manufacturing can match global standards. Top Chinese brands like BYD and Leapmotor achieve comparable or better scores in some categories.

Conclusion: Are Chinese EVs Safe? Final Verdict

Yes, top-tier Chinese EVs are safe and match or exceed European and American brand safety standards. Chinese electric vehicles have made dramatic safety improvements and now rank among Europe’s safest vehicles. Premium Chinese EVs like BYD Seal, Leapmotor B10, and NIO models achieve top Euro NCAP five-star ratings with scores comparable to Mercedes-Benz and other premium European brands.

However, safety varies significantly by model and brand. Budget models may have compromises, as demonstrated by the Dongfeng Nammi Box’s three-star rating. The key takeaway: evaluate each model individually based on Euro NCAP ratings rather than assuming all Chinese EVs are equal.

Key Takeaways

• ✅ Chinese EVs have made dramatic safety improvements and now rank among Europe’s safest vehicles
• ✅ The best Chinese EVs match or exceed established Western brands in safety performance
• ✅ Safety varies model-by-model rather than by country of origin
• ✅ Chinese manufacturers significantly upgrade safety systems for European markets
• ✅ New Chinese battery safety standards (GB 38031-2025) are among the strictest globally
• ⚠️ Budget-focused Chinese models may underperform compared to mainstream offerings

Safety Recommendations for Buyers

When shopping for a Chinese EV, follow these safety guidelines:

1. Choose models with Euro NCAP five-star ratings—verify the specific model has been tested
2. Prioritize premium Chinese EV brands (BYD, NIO, Leapmotor, Zeekr) over budget options
3. Verify European market testing—Chinese manufacturers often enhance safety specifications for EU models
4. Check for recent recalls and how manufacturers have addressed them
5. Look for advanced battery safety systems—models with Blade Battery or similar LFP chemistries
6. Review Euro NCAP detailed scores, not just star ratings—understand adult/child/vulnerable road user protection
7. Avoid budget models without Euro NCAP testing or with low ratings

The Chinese EV market is maturing rapidly, and safety standards are improving with each new model. By choosing tested, five-star rated models from reputable manufacturers, you can confidently purchase a safe Chinese electric vehicle that matches or exceeds European standards.

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This guide was last updated in January 2026. For the latest Euro NCAP test results, visit Euro NCAP’s official website.